Around 76% of UK employees say they feel part of an “inclusive team,” according to O.C. Tanner’s latest Global Culture Report.
This is above the global average of 32%, suggesting the UK is making progress on diversity, equality and inclusion (DE&I). But the report cautions that challenges persist at the team level, where more effort is needed to ensure all employees feel included, valued and respected.
The 2026 Culture Report surveyed more than 38,000 employees across 24 countries, including 1,668 from the U.K. Globally, 85 per cent of companies identify diversity and inclusion (DE&I) as a priority but fewer than a third of employees feel their teams are inclusive.
Meanwhile, the majority of UK employees report a sense of inclusion, highlighting the country’s relative DE&I strengths.
The report emphasises that inclusion must be embedded at the team level rather than delivered solely as a top-down initiative. O.C. Tanner highlights that inclusion at the team level is important, with practical actions including open discussions, giving all employees a voice, and respecting colleagues’ time, boundaries, and perspectives.
The report also notes a link between inclusivity and business outcomes: organisations with inclusive teams are more likely to report financial health and overall organisational performance.
O.C. Tanner European MD of employee recognition specialist Robert Ordever says: “U.K. organisations are clearly doing better than many countries when it comes to helping employees to feel appreciated, respected and included. However, it’s important not to start celebrating yet, as DE&I efforts are experiencing a time of global volatility. It’s also clear that much still needs to be done to ensure all employees feel they can be their authentic selves at work.
“Employees must witness and practice inclusive behaviours daily. And when employees demonstrate inclusivity such as being considerate of a colleague’s cultural or religious beliefs, they must be publicly recognised so others are encouraged to replicate these desirable behaviours. This creates a positive ripple effect across the workforce.
“While these latest findings are encouraging for U.K. businesses, it’s important to remember that fostering an inclusive workforce is an ongoing effort. Leaders and HR teams must keep driving inclusion at the team level, ensuring that feeling valued and appreciated becomes part of everyday working life.”
